Mobile data terminals (German acronym MDE, also portabl data terminals) are electronic devices that are used by the order picker to query or record articles in the system. They are either held in the hand or attached to a transporter such as a forklift truck.
The printed picking lists are replaced by the MDE devices and all information is provided via the device. Most devices are equipped with a keyboard, a display (usually with a touchscreen) and a scanner. With the help of these devices, pick positions can be acknowledged, stock shortages transmitted and integrated into the warehouse management software.
Advantages of mobile data terminals:
- Real-time communication
- Increasing flexibility
- Additional stock reconciliation is superfluous
- Time is saved
- Minimization of picking errors
Disadvantages of mobile data terminals:
- Picking performance is reduced
- One hand is busy, remedy with pick-by-voice or pick-by-light
